NHL adds centralized concussion spotters to player safety protocols
NEW YORK — Centralized spotters observing games on television were added to the NHL’s concussion prevention protocols on Tuesday night.
The league already had in-arena spotters placed at all NHL games to start the pre-season, but they will now additionally have officials monitoring all games from the player safety room in New York City.
The centralized spotters will be authorized to require a player’s removal from play for evaluation for concussion if the player exhibits certain visible signs under the protocol, following a direct or indirect blow to the head.
In-arena league spotters and on-ice officials will complement the central league spotters and will also monitor play for signs of possible concussion.